Dig In

Welcome to Dig In, Wenodo’s podcast going behind the scenes of modern hospitality.

In Episode 2 of Dig In, host David Durban sits down with Kurt Zdesar, the visionary founder behind Chotto Matte , to uncover the story behind one of hospitality’s most recognisable global brands!

From transforming London’s dining scene with contemporary Nikkei cuisine to expanding internationally, Kurt’s journey is one defined by ambition, creativity, and an unwavering belief in his vision.

This teaser is just a glimpse into a fascinating conversation covering the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the realities of growing a hospitality brand, the risks that come with thinking differently, and the lessons learned along the way.

Whether you’re a restaurateur, hospitality professional, or simply curious about what it takes to build a brand that stands out on a global stage, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

🍽️ In This Episode, We Dig Into:
  • How Kurt’s early passion for food set him on the hospitality path
  • Learning the business behind world-class restaurants at Nobu
  • Helping build Zuma and Roka into global restaurant brands
  • The moment Kurt decided to create Chotto Matte
  • Introducing Nikkei cuisine to London and beyond
  • Why design, energy and atmosphere are just as important as food
  • The realities of launching ambitious restaurant concepts
  • What it takes to scale a hospitality brand internationally

⚡ Quick Fire Highlights:
  • Favourite ingredient: Fresh seafood
  • Comfort meal after service: Simple pasta
  • Chef he admires: Nobu Matsuhisa
  • Mantra: Create experiences people remember
  • One hospitality trend he’d ban: Style without substance

🎧 Why Listen?

This episode goes beyond the typical restaurant success story to explore how global hospitality brands are actually built. Kurt shares the lessons learned from working at the very highest level of the industry, and what it takes to create restaurants that people don’t just visit, but truly remember.

📢 Stay Connected
  • Subscribe to Dig In for new episodes
  • Visit Wenodo to explore more from the podcast

What is Dig In?

Dig In is a story-led podcast going behind the scenes of modern hospitality. Hosted by David Durban, each episode sits down with chefs, restaurant owners and industry leaders to explore the moments that shaped their careers. The risks they took, the mistakes they made, and the lessons they learned along the way.

Set against the backdrop of Encore Bar in Soho, Dig In blends relaxed, conversational interviews with thoughtful insight into craft, leadership and culture.